Fiber distribution assemblies

ABSTRACT

A fiber distribution assembly includes an enclosure defining an interior cavity. The enclosure includes a base defining a first opening and a second opening, and a cover rotatably coupled to the base and configured to rotate about an axis. The base is symmetric about a line perpendicular to the axis. The first opening is on one side of the line, and the second opening is on the other side of the line. The fiber distribution assembly also includes a tray rotatably coupled to the enclosure within the interior cavity of the enclosure and that is symmetric about the line. The fiber distribution assembly also includes a cable management or fiber optic component configured to be releasably coupled to the tray.

BACKGROUND

Field

This disclosure relates to optical communication networks and,particularly, relates to fiber distribution assemblies for use inoptical communication networks for providing fiber to a subscriber at alocation (FTTx networks).

Background Art

There are many types of FTTx networks. For example, FTTx networksinclude fiber to the curb (FTTC) networks, fiber to the premises (FTTP)networks, fiber to the business (FTTB) networks, and fiber to theantenna (FTTA) networks. The required cable management components, forexample, cable management spools and cable guides, and fiber opticcomponents, for example, adapter plates, splitters, and splicecassettes, depend on the particular FTTx network application. Thesecable management components and fiber optic components are typicallyhoused within an enclosure. The particular configuration of these cablemanagement components and fiber optic components within the enclosurecan vary greatly depending on the required components and the physicallocation at which the components are being deployed. For example, someapplications require top cable access to the enclosure, while otherapplication may require bottom cable access to the enclosure. And otherapplications may require both top and bottom cable access to theenclosure. Further, some physical locations may require that theenclosure's cover swing in a particular direction. Within the enclosure,the cable management components and the optical components must beconfigured a certain way to accommodate such design requirements and tominimize any bend loss.

Accordingly, there is a need for a fiber distribution assembly thatallows the cable management components and the fiber optic componentswithin the enclosure to be easily configured depending on the particularapplication such that the same fiber distribution assembly can be usedin a variety of FTTx applications.

BRIEF SUMMARY

In some embodiments, a fiber distribution assembly includes an enclosuredefining an interior cavity. The enclosure includes a base defining afirst opening and a second opening, and a cover rotatably coupled to thebase and configured to rotate about an axis. The base is symmetric abouta line perpendicular to the axis. The first opening is on one side ofthe line, and the second opening is on the other side of the line. Thefiber distribution assembly also includes a tray rotatably coupled tothe enclosure within the interior cavity of the enclosure and that issymmetric about the line. The fiber distribution assembly also includesa cable management or fiber optic component configured to be releasablycoupled to the tray.

In some embodiments, the fiber distribution assembly includes a solidgland configured to selectively seal the first opening and the secondopening, and a gland configured to pass a fiber optic cable and toselectively seal the first opening and the second opening. In someembodiments, the gland configured to pass the fiber optic cable isfurther configured to pass a plurality of fiber optic cables. In someembodiments, fiber distribution assembly also includes a glandconfigured to pass only a single fiber optic cable and to selectivelyseal the first opening and the second opening.

In some embodiments, the base further defines a plurality of firstopenings and a plurality of second openings. The fiber distributionassembly also includes a plurality of solid glands each configured toselectively seal one of the plurality of first openings and one of theplurality of second openings, and a plurality of glands each configuredto a pass fiber optic cable and to selectively seal one of the pluralityof first openings and one of the plurality of second openings.

In some embodiments, the cable management or fiber optic componentincludes at least one of a cable management spool, a cable guide, asplitter holder, and an adapter plate. In some embodiments, fiberdistribution assembly includes a plurality of cable management or fiberoptic components configured to be releasably coupled to the tray.

In some embodiments, the tray includes a panel defining a plurality ofuniformly spaced openings. In some embodiments, each of the plurality ofcable management or fiber optic components can include a base that isconfigured to be coupled adjacent to the panel of the tray and defines aplurality of openings spaced to match the spacing of the plurality ofuniformly spaced openings of the panel of the tray. The fiberdistribution assembly can also include a plurality of fastenersconfigured to pass through the plurality of openings of the plurality ofcable management or fiber optic components and operatively engagerespective openings of the plurality of uniformly spaced openings of thepanel of the tray. The fasteners releasably couple the plurality ofcable management or fiber optic components to the tray. In someembodiments, each of the plurality of cable management or fiber opticcomponents includes a base configured to be coupled adjacent to thepanel of the tray and a plurality of interference fit pins extendingfrom the base and spaced to match the spacing of the plurality ofuniformly spaced openings of the panel of the tray. The interference fitpins are configured to operatively engage respective openings of theplurality of uniformly spaced openings of the panel of the tray tocreate an interference fit. This interference fit releasably couples theplurality of cable management or fiber optic components to the tray. Insome embodiments, the plurality of uniformly spaced openings of thepanel of the tray form a two-dimensional grid pattern.

In some embodiments, the base includes a main panel, opposing first andsecond side walls extending from the main panel, and opposing third andfourth side walls extending from the base panel between the first andsecond side walls. The first wall defines the first opening, and thesecond wall defines the second opening.

In some embodiments, a fiber distribution assembly includes an enclosuredefining an interior cavity. The fiber distribution assembly alsoincludes a tray rotatably coupled to the enclosure within the interiorcavity of the enclosure and that includes a panel defining a pluralityof uniformly spaced openings. The fiber distribution assembly alsoincludes a plurality of cable management or fiber optic components. Eachof the plurality of cable management or fiber optic components includesa base configured to be coupled adjacent to the panel of the tray anddefines a plurality of openings spaced to match the spacing of theplurality of uniformly spaced openings of the panel of the tray. Thefiber distribution assembly also includes a plurality of fastenersconfigured to pass through the plurality of openings of the plurality ofcable management or fiber optic components and operatively engagerespective openings of the plurality of uniformly spaced openings of thepanel of the tray. The fasteners releasably couple the plurality ofcable management or fiber optic components to the tray. In someembodiments, the plurality of uniformly spaced openings of the tray forma two-dimensional grid pattern. In some embodiments, the plurality ofcable management or fiber optic components include at least one of acable management spool, a cable guide, a splitter holder, and an adapterplate. In some embodiments, the enclosure includes a base and a coverrotatably coupled the base that rotates about an axis. The base and thetray are symmetric about a line perpendicular to the axis.

In some embodiments, a fiber distribution assembly includes an enclosuredefining an interior cavity. The fiber distribution assembly alsoincludes a tray rotatably coupled to the enclosure within the interiorcavity of the enclosure and that includes a panel defining a pluralityof uniformly spaced openings. The fiber distribution assembly alsoincludes a plurality of cable management or fiber optic components. Eachcomponent comprising a base configured to be coupled adjacent to thepanel of the tray and a plurality of interference fit pins extendingfrom the base and spaced to match the spacing of the plurality ofuniformly spaced openings of the panel of the tray. The interference fitpins are configured to operatively engage respective openings of theplurality of uniformly spaced openings of the panel of the tray tocreate an interference fit that releasably couples the plurality ofcable management or fiber optic components to the tray. In someembodiments, the plurality of uniformly spaced openings of the tray forma two-dimensional grid pattern. In some embodiments, the plurality ofcable management or fiber optic components includes at least one of acable management spool, a cable guide, a splitter holder, and an adapterplate. In some embodiments, the enclosure includes a base and a coverrotatably coupled the base that rotates about an axis. The base and thetray are symmetric about a line perpendicular to the axis.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form partof the specification, illustrate the embodiments and, together with thedescription, further serve to explain the principles of the embodimentsand to enable a person skilled in the relevant art(s) to make and usethe embodiments.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a fiber distribution assembly accordingto an embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the fiber distribution assembly of FIG.1 with the enclosure open.

FIG. 3 is a plan view of the fiber distribution assembly of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the fiber distribution assembly of FIGS.1-3 with the enclosure being opened and the tray at an intermediateposition.

FIG. 5 is a plan view of the fiber distribution assembly of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a base of the enclosure of the fiberdistribution assembly of FIGS. 1-5 with the cover of the enclosure andthe tray being removed.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the tray shown in FIGS. 1-5.

FIG. 8 is a plan view of the tray in FIG. 7.

FIGS. 9A and 9B are perspective and side views, respectively, of a glandaccording to an embodiment.

FIGS. 10A and 10B are perspective and plan views, respectively, of acable management spool according to an embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an adapter plate without adaptersaccording to an embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a cable guide according to anembodiment.

The features and advantages of the embodiments will become more apparentfrom the detailed description set forth below when taken in conjunctionwith the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments will now be described in detail with reference toembodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, inwhich like reference numerals are used to indicate identical orfunctionally similar elements. References to “embodiments” or an“embodiment” indicate that the embodiment(s) described may include aparticular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodimentmay not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, orcharacteristic. Moreover, descriptions of embodiments do not necessarilyrefer to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature,structure, or characteristic is described in connection with anembodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of oneskilled in the art to effect such feature, structure, or characteristicin connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitlydescribed.

In some embodiments, a fiber distribution assembly includes an enclosuredefining an interior cavity, a tray rotatably coupled to the enclosurewithin the interior cavity, and at least one cable management or fiberoptic component configured to be releasably coupled to the tray. Forexample, FIGS. 1-12 illustrate a fiber distribution assembly 2 accordingto an embodiment.

Enclosure

Referring to FIG. 1, fiber distribution assembly 2 can include anenclosure 4 that defines an interior cavity suitable for storing one ormore cable management or fiber optic components, which are described inmore detail below. In some embodiments, the interior cavity of enclosure4 has a volume that ranges from about 15,000 cm³ to about 25,000 cm³. Inother embodiments, the interior cavity has a volume less than about15,000 cm³, or more than about 25,000 cm³. In some embodiments,enclosure 4 has a height that ranges from about 30 cm to about 50 cm, awidth that ranges from about 20 cm to about 40 cm, and a depth thatranges from about 10 cm to about 20 cm. In other embodiments, enclosure4 can have dimensions outside of these recited ranges. Enclosure 4 canbe configured such that the interior cavity is environmentally sealedfrom the surrounding atmosphere to protect the cable management or fiberoptic components stored within the interior cavity. Enclosure 4 can bemade of, for example, plastic, metal, or any other suitable material.Enclosure 4 can be configured for indoor or outdoor use.

Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-5, enclosure 4 includes a base 6 and acover 7 rotatably coupled to base 6. Base 6 can be configured to bemounted to a surface, for example, a wall, enclosure, pole, or any otherdesired mounting surface. Base 6 can, in some embodiments, include abracket assembly for mounting enclosure 4 to the mounting surface. Cover7 is configured to rotate, about an axis of rotation, between a closedposition as shown in FIG. 1 and an opened position as shown in FIGS.2-5. At the closed position, cover 7 engages base 6 and substantiallyseals the interior cavity of enclosure 4. At the opened position, theinterior cavity of enclosure 4 is opened, and a user has access to theinternal structure of enclosure 4 as well as the cable management orfiber optic components stored within enclosure 4. In some embodiments asshown in FIGS. 2-6, cover 7 is rotatably coupled to base 6 using a hinge30 that defines the axis of rotation. Hinge 30 can be formed, at leastin part, by integral portions of base 6 and cover 7. In otherembodiments, hinge 30 can be a separate component coupled to base 6 andcover 7.

Referring collectively to FIGS. 1-6, in some embodiments, base 6includes a main panel 8, a pair of opposing side walls 10 and 12extending from main panel 8, and a pair of opposing side walls 14 and 16also extending from main panel 8 between side walls 10 and 12. Sidewalls 10, 12, 14, and 16 collectively define, at least in part, theinterior cavity of enclosure 4. Although main panel 8 is substantiallyrectangular as best seen in FIGS. 3 and 5, main panel 8 can have anyother suitable shape.

In some embodiments, enclosure 4 includes a lock 18 that prevents cover7 from rotating relative to base 6 when cover 7 is in the closedposition as shown in FIG. 1. Lock 18 can be a tumbler lock or any othersuitable locking device. Lock 18 is securely coupled to cover 7. As bestseen in FIGS. 2-6, fiber distribution assembly 2 can also include a lockplate 36 securely coupled to base 6, for example, coupled to main panel8, that is configured to cooperate with lock 18 to prevent cover 7 fromrotating relative to base 6 when lock 18 is engaged with lock plate 36.As shown in FIGS. 2-6, in some embodiments, lock plate 36 is anelongated metal plate that extends from main panel 8 and has a flange atits distal end configured to engage lock 18. In some embodiments, lock18 requires a key, combination, authenticating token, or any suitableauthentication mechanism to open.

Enclosure 4 of fiber distribution assembly 2 can also include one ormore clip assemblies 20. Clip assemblies 20 are configured toselectively prevent cover 7 from rotating relative to base 6 when cover7 is in the closed position as shown in FIG. 1. Clip assemblies 20 canalso be configured to apply a uniform force to cover 7 to fully engage agasket 9 between cover 7 and base 6 to create a water-tight seal betweencover 7 and base 6 when cover 7 is in the closed position as shown inFIG. 1. In some embodiments, gasket 9 can be disposed on cover 7 asshown in FIGS. 2-5, and in other embodiments, gasket 9 can be disposedon base 6. Clip assemblies 20 can be used to keep enclosure 4 closedwhen lock 18 is omitted or not in use. As shown in FIGS. 1-5, enclosure4 includes two clip assemblies 20 coupled to base 6. In otherembodiments, enclosure 4 includes one clip assembly 20 or more than twoclip assemblies 20. As best seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, each clip assembly 20include links that are configured to latch with a recess formed in theexterior of cover 7 to prevent cover 7 from rotating relative to base 6.Disengaging clip assemblies 20 from the recess of cover 7, allows cover7 to rotate relative to base 6 and, thus, provide access to the interiorcavity of enclosure 4.

Enclosure 4 can also be configured to use of a locking device that isseparate from enclosure 4, for example, a keyed or combination pad lock,to prevent cover 7 from rotating relative to base 6 when cover 7 is inthe closed position as shown in FIG. 1. For example, in some embodimentsas shown in FIGS. 1-5, base 6 includes a lock flange 22 that extendsoutward from side wall 14. Lock flange 22 defines one or more openingsconfigured to receive a shackle of a pad lock. Cover 7 includes acorresponding lock flange 24 that extends outward from cover 7 anddefines one are more openings that are aligned with the openings of lockflange 22 of base 6 when cover 7 is in the closed position. The shackleof a pad lock can pass through the aligned holes of lock flange 22 andlock flange 24 to prevent cover 7 from rotating relative to base 6.

Fiber distribution assembly 2 can include or omit any combination oflock 18, clamp assemblies 20, and lock flanges 22 and 24, depending onthe desired level of security.

Enclosure 4 defines one or more openings for receiving one or more inputfiber optic cables, for example, a single fiber input distributioncable. Enclosure 4 also defines one or more openings for passing one ormore output fiber optic cables, for example, single fiber drop cables.In some embodiments, base 6 defines both the opening(s) for receivingthe input fiber optic cable(s), and the opening(s) for passing theoutput fiber optic cables. For example, as best seen in FIGS. 2-6, insome embodiments, side wall 10 of base 6 defines a plurality of openings26, for example, five openings 26 as shown. Side wall 10 can define lessthan or more than five openings 26 in some embodiments. In someembodiments, side wall 10 can form channels that define openings 26.Each channel can be configured to closely and slidably receive glands(described in more detail below) for substantially sealing therespective opening 26. As best seen in FIGS. 2-6, in some embodiments,side wall 12 of base 6 defines a plurality of openings 28, for example,five openings 28 as shown. In some embodiments, side wall 12 definesmore than or less than five openings 28. In some embodiments, side wall12 can form channels that define openings 28. Each channel can beconfigured to closely and slidably receive glands (described in moredetail below) for substantially sealing the respective opening 28. Insome embodiments, each opening 26 and opening 28 has a rectangular shapeas shown. In other embodiments, each opening 26 and opening 28 has anon-rectangular shape, for example, a circular shape or any othersuitable non-rectangular shape. In some embodiments as shown, openings26 and openings 28 are similarly configured (for example, same shape,size, and number).

In some embodiments as best seen in FIG. 5, main panel 8 of base 6defines a plurality of openings 80 configured to operatively receivefasteners (for example, a bolt, a screw, an interference fit pin, arivet, a nail, or any other suitable fastener) to releasably couplecable management, fiber optic, or enclosure components to main panel 8.Examples of cable management, fiber optic, or enclosure components thatcan be coupled to panel 8 include, but are not limited to, cable guides58 (which are described in more detail below), posts 56 (which aredescribed in more detail below), posts 76 (which are described in moredetail below), lock plate 36 (which was described above), and spliceclosures 64. In some embodiments, base 6 is configured to house aplurality of splice closures 64. Splice closures 64 can be configured tobe stacked other similarly configured splice closures 64 and secured tomain panel 8 using at least one fastener 66.

In some embodiments, the walls forming openings 80 are threaded foroperatively coupling with threads on fasteners 60. For example, threadedmetal (or other suitable material) inserts can be inserted withinopenings 80. The threaded metal inserts are configured to mate with thethreads on fasteners 60. In some embodiments, the threaded metal insertscan be heat-staked into base 6.

In some embodiments, enclosure 4, including base 6 and cover 7, issymmetric about a line 29 that is perpendicular to the axis about whichcover 7 rotates relative to base 6 (defined by hinge 30 as shown inFIGS. 2-6). Line 29 bisects base 6 and cover 7. In some embodiments,just base 6 of enclosure 4 is symmetric. In such symmetric embodiments,openings 26 are on one side of line 29, and openings 28 are on the otherside of line 29, and openings 26 and openings 28 are similarlyconfigured such that each of openings 26 and openings 28 can closely andslidably receive a similarly constructed gland that substantially sealsthe respective openings. Due to this symmetric configuration ofenclosure 4, fiber distribution assembly 2 can be used in a variety ofapplications. For example, the same fiber distribution assembly 2 can beused for both top- and bottom-cable-access applications by routing theone or more input fiber optic cables and the one or more output fiberoptic cables through either openings 26 or openings 28. This symmetricconfiguration also allows for pass-through applications in which the oneor more input fiber optic cables enter enclosure 4 through one ofopenings 26 or openings 28 and then exits one of the other of openings26 and openings 28. For example, the one or more input fiber opticcables can enter enclosure 4 through one of openings 26 and then exitthrough one of openings 28. Likewise, the same fiber distributionassembly 2 can be used for both right- and left-hinged coverapplications by simply routing the one or more input fiber optic cablesand the one or more output fiber optic cables through either openings 26or openings 28 once enclosure 4 is mounted at the desired orientation.The ability to use the same fiber distribution assembly 2 for a varietyof applications helps decrease inventory costs of an installer.

Glands

Fiber distribution assembly 2 includes a plurality of a glandsconfigured to substantially seal openings 26 and openings 28. Becauseopenings 26 are similarly configured as openings 28, the glands thatseal openings 26 can also be used to seal openings 28 and the other wayaround. In some embodiments as shown in FIGS. 2-6, these glands includea plurality of solid glands 32 that are not configured to pass a fiberoptic cable. Solid glands 32 do not include an opening for passing afiber optic cable. In some embodiments as shown in FIGS. 2-6, the glandsinclude a plurality of glands configured to pass one or more fiber opticcables. For example, as shown in FIGS. 2-6, the glands configured topass one or more fiber optic cables can include glands 34 that areconfigured to pass a plurality of fiber optic cables and include gland52 that is configured to pass only one fiber optic cable. Glands 34include a plurality of openings that allow a plurality of fiber opticcables to pass there through, and gland 52 includes a single openingthat allows a single fiber optic cable to pass there through. Forexample, single fiber out output drop cables can pass through glands 34,and a single fiber input distribution cable can pass through gland 52.Glands 32, 34, and 52 can be made of polymer or any other suitablematerial for substantially sealing openings 26 and openings 28. In someembodiments, glands 32, 34, and 52 are compressible and elastic.

Referring to FIGS. 9A and 9B, in some embodiments, glands 34 includeboots 86 through which a fiber optic cable passes. Boots 86 help preventexcessive bending of the fiber optic cables. As shown in FIGS. 9A and9B, gland 34 includes a main body portion 82 and a plurality of boots 86extending from main body portion 82. In some embodiments, each gland 34can have twelve boots 86 such that twelve separate fiber optic cablescan pass through a single gland 34. In other embodiments, gland 34 canhave less than or more than twelve boots 86. In some embodiments, fiberdistribution assembly can include glands 34 that each have a varyingnumber of boots 86. In some embodiments as shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B,boots 86 have a decreasing diameter as boots 86 extend from main bodyportion 82. An installer can cut boot 86 at the length having thedesired diameter such that boot 86 closely accommodates the fiber opticcable passing there through. In such embodiments, the same gland 34 canbe used with a variety of different sizes of fiber optic cables.

Main body portion 82 of gland 34 can also define a groove 84 partiallyaround the periphery of main body portion 82. Groove 84 is sized toclosely accommodate an edge of side wall 10 or side wall 12 that definesopenings 26 or openings 28, respectively, when gland 34 is insertedwithin either opening 26 or opening 28. The engagement between groove 84of gland 34 and the edge of side wall 10 or side wall 12 helps maintaingland 34 in place. Main body portion 82 can be sized to be closely andslidably received within the channel of side wall 10 and side wall 12that defines openings 26 and openings 28.

In some embodiments, gland 52 is constructed similar to gland 34 asshown in FIGS. 9A and 9B except that gland 52 only includes a singleboot 86.

In some embodiments, solid gland 32 is constructed similarly to gland 34as shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B except without any boots. The main bodyportion 82 of gland 34 is solid and defines groove 84.

Rotatable Tray

As shown in FIGS. 2-5, fiber distribution assembly 2 also includes atray 38 rotatably coupled to the enclosure within the interior cavity ofenclosure 4. Tray 38 is configured such that an installer can releasablycouple one or more cable management or fiber optic components thereto.FIGS. 2-4, 7, and 8 illustrate an embodiment of tray 38. Examples ofcable management or fiber optic components that can be releasablycoupled to tray 38 include, but are not limited to, a holder 44configured to retain an optical splitter (not illustrated) or any othersuitable fiber optic device (for example, fanout device, a tap module, awavelength division multiplexer module, and a coupler module), a cablemanagement spool 46, an adapter plate 48 configured to retain one ormore adapters 50, a cable guide 58, or any other suitably configuredcable management or fiber optic component. Splitter holder 44, cablemanagement spool 46, adapter plate 48, and cable guide 58 are describedin more detail below. Tray 38 can be made of plastic, metal, or anyother suitable material.

In some embodiments, tray 38 is rotatably coupled to base 6, asdescribed in more detail below, and is spaced apart from main panel 8 ofbase 6 such that fiber optic cables entering through either openings 26or openings 28 are between main panel 8 and tray 38. Tray 38 isconfigured to rotate between a closed position as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3and an opened position. FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate tray 38 at anintermediate position between the opened position and the closedposition.

Tray 38 includes a panel 40. At the closed position, panel 40 issubstantially parallel to main panel 8 of base 6. In some embodiments,the surface of panel 40 facing the opening of enclosure 4 when cover 7is at the opened position—the surface facing away from main panel 8 ofbase 6—defines a plurality of openings 42. Each opening 42 is configuredto operatively receive a fastener 60 (for example, a bolt, a screw, aninterference fit pin, a rivet, a nail, or any other suitable fastener)that releasably couples the cable management or fiber optic componentsto panel 40 of tray 38. In some embodiments, openings 42 are throughholes that extend through the entire depth of panel 40. In otherembodiments, openings 42 are openings that extend only partially throughthe depth of panel 40.

In some embodiments, the walls forming openings 42 are threaded foroperatively coupling with threads on fasteners 60. For example,internally threaded metal (or other suitable material) inserts can beinserted within openings 42. The threaded metal inserts are configuredto mate with the threads on fasteners 60. In some embodiments, thethreaded metal inserts can be heat-staked into panel 40.

In some embodiments, openings 42 are uniformly spaced on panel 40. Forexample, openings 42 can form a two-dimensional grid pattern as shown inFIGS. 2-4, 7, and 8. In some embodiments, the grid pattern forms squareshaving a dimension ranging from about 1 cm to about 5 cm. In otherembodiments, the grid pattern forms squares having a dimension smallerthan about 1 cm or larger than about 5 cm. In some embodiments, as shownin FIGS. 2-4, 7, and 8, panel 40 can include openings 42 over asubstantial majority of its surface.

Tray 38 can also include a side wall 70 that extends substantiallyperpendicular to panel 40 along at least a portion of the periphery ofpanel 40 and away from main panel 8 of base 6. Side wall 70 helps retainfiber optic cables within the periphery of panel 40 for efficient andcompact cable storage. In some embodiments, tray 38 also includes aplurality of retaining tabs 62 that extend inward from the distal edgeof side wall 70. Retaining tabs 62 help maintain fiber optic cableswithin the space defined by panel 40 and side wall 70 for efficient andcompact cable storage.

As best seen in FIGS. 3, 7, and 8, panel 40 can also define a pair ofrecessed notches 63 at its periphery. Notches 63 allow fiber opticcables to easily pass from the volume between panel 40 of tray 38 andmain panel 8 of base 6 to the front side of panel 40. Notches 63 canhave any suitable shape, for example, a rectangular shape as shown inFIGS. 3, 7, and 8, a semi-circular shape, or any other suitable shape.

Tray 38 is rotatably coupled to enclosure 4. In some embodiments, tray38 includes one or more pivot pins 54 as best seen in FIG. 8. As shownin FIG. 8, tray 38 includes two pivot pins 54 that are formed in thesame plane as panel 40. Pivot pins 54 rotatably couple withcorresponding posts 56 (best seen in FIGS. 3, 4, and 6) that definechannels that rotatably and operatively receive pivot pins 54. As bestseen in FIG. 6, two posts 56 extend from main panel 8 of base 6. Inother embodiments, tray 38 includes less than or more than two pivotpins 54, and fiber distribution assembly 2 includes a correspondingnumber of posts 56 for rotatably coupling with pivot pins 54.

In some embodiments, tray 38 is configured to be releasably coupled toenclosure 4 such that tray 38 can be selectively removed, temporarily orpermanently, from enclosure 4. For example, an installer may temporarilyremove tray 38 from enclosure 4 to facilitate better access to base 6during initial installation, and then tray 38 can be recoupled toenclosure 38 afterwards. Depending on the application, an installer maywant to permanently remove tray 38 from enclosure 4. In someembodiments, pivot pins 54 are configured to create a releasableinterference fit with the channels defined by posts 56 such that tray 38can be releasably coupled to enclosure 4.

In some embodiments, tray 38 is configured to be selectively locked inthe closed position as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. Tray 38 can include oneor more retention pins 74. As shown in FIG. 8, tray 38 includes tworetention pins 74 that are formed in the same plane as panel 40.Retention pins 74 are sized and shaped to create an interference fitwith a channel defined by corresponding posts 76, which are best seen inFIGS. 5 and 6. Posts 76 extend from main panel 8 of base 6. When tray 38is in the closed position, retention pins 74 are firmly received withinchannels defined by posts 76, maintaining tray 38 in the closedposition. Posts 76 and retention pins 74 are configured such that aninstaller can easily disengage retention pins 74 from posts 76 bypulling tray 38 away from main panel 8 of base 6.

In some embodiments, tray 38, including openings 42 defined by panel 40and notches 63, is symmetric about line 29, which is perpendicular tothe axis about which cover 7 rotates relative to base 6 (and the axisabout which tray 38 rotates). Line 29 also bisects tray 38. Thissymmetric configuration of tray 38, in combination with the openings 42being configured to releasably receive a fastener, allow the same fiberdistribution assembly 2 to be used for a variety of applications. Forexample, the same fiber distribution assembly 2 can be used for bothtop- and bottom-cable-access applications by simply adjusting theposition of the cable management or fiber optic components on panel 40such that the cable management or fiber optic components are properlypositioned for the desired application. Likewise, the same fiberdistribution assembly 2 can be used for both right- and left-hingedcover applications by simply adjusting the position of the couple cablemanagement or fiber optic components on panel 40. Being able to use thesame fiber distribution assembly 2 for a variety of applications canhelp an installer decrease its inventory costs. In some embodiments,enclosure 4 and tray 38 are both symmetric. In some embodiments, eitherenclosure 4 or tray 38 is symmetric. And in some embodiments, neitherenclosure 4 nor tray 38 is symmetric.

In some embodiments, openings 80 are uniformly spaced on base 6 to matchthe spacing of openings 42 of tray 38. For example, openings 80 can forma two-dimensional grid pattern that matches the grid pattern of openings42 as shown in FIGS. 2-4, 7, and 8. Accordingly, the same cablemanagement or fiber optic components that can be releasably coupled totray 38 can also be releasably coupled to base 6.

Cable Management and Fiber Optic Components

Fiber distribution assembly 2 includes one or more cable management orfiber optic components that are configured to be releasably coupled totray 38. Because the one or more cable management or fiber opticcomponents are configured to be releasably coupled to tray 38, aninstaller can easily configure fiber distribution assembly 2 dependingon the particular application such that the same fiber distributionassembly can be used in a variety of FTTx applications. For example, aninstaller can easily position the one or more cable management or fiberoptic components on tray 38 as desired in the field or at theinstaller's facility based on the application. In some embodiments, theone or more cable management or fiber optic components include at leasttwo different types of cable management or fiber optic components.

In some embodiments, the one or more cable management or fiber opticcomponents are configured to be releasably coupled to tray 38 such thatan installer can also readjust the position of the one or more cablemanagement or fiber optic components on tray 38 if needed after the oneor more cable management or fiber optic components have been initiallycoupled to tray 38. That is, the components can be uncoupled from tray38 and then recoupled to tray 38.

Fiber distribution assembly 2 can include any combination or number ofthe following cable management or fiber optic components: splitterholder 44 that is configured to retain an optical splitter (notillustrated), cable management spool 46, adapter plate 48 that isconfigured to retain one or more adapters 50, or cable guide 58. In someembodiments, each of the cable management or fiber optic components thatare releasably coupled to tray 38 either (1) define a plurality ofopenings that are spaced to match the spacing of openings 42 of panel 40and that are configured to receive fasteners 60 that operatively engagerespective openings 42 of panel 40 to releasably secure the cablemanagement or fiber optic component to tray 38, or (2) includes aplurality of integral interference fit pins that are spaced to match thespacing of openings 42 of panel 40 and that are configured tooperatively engage openings 42 to releasably secure the cable managementor fiber optic component to tray 38. In some embodiments, fiberdistribution assembly 2 can include at least two different types ofcomponents from the following cable management or fiber opticcomponents: splitter holder 44, cable management spool 46, adapter plate48, and cable guide 58. That is in some embodiments, fiber distributionassembly 2 includes a plurality of releasably coupled components thatare not the same type of component. These features are further describedwith respect to specific exemplary cable management or fiber opticcomponents below.

As best seen in FIGS. 2, 3, 7, and 8, fiber distribution assembly 2includes at least one splitter holder 44 configured to retain an opticalsplitter. Holder 44 include a base 45 configured to be coupled adjacentto and, in some embodiments, flush with panel 40 of tray 38. Base 45 ofholder 44 defines a plurality of openings 47 that are spaced to matchthe spacing of openings 42 defined in panel 40 of tray 38. Base 45 isplanar. Accordingly, when one opening 47 of holder 44 is aligned withone opening 42 of panel 40, the other openings 47 of holder 44 can bealigned with other openings 42 of panel 40. When openings 47 andopenings 42 are aligned, fasteners 60 can pass through openings 47 andoperatively engage openings 42 of panel 40 to releasably secure holder44 to tray 38. In some alternative embodiments, instead of base 45defining openings 47 for receiving fasteners 60, base 45 includes aplurality of integral fasteners, for example, interference fit pins,that extend from base 45 and that are spaced to match the spacing ofopenings 42 of panel 40 to operatively engage openings 42 of panel 40 tocreate the interference fit, which releasably couples holder 44 to tray38.

As shown in FIGS. 2, 3, 7, and 8, fiber distribution assembly 2 includesone or more cable management spools 46. FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate oneembodiment of cable management spool 46. Cable management spool 46includes a cylindrical portion 49 configured to store excess slack offiber optic cables contained within enclosure 4. Cable management spool46 includes a base 51 configured to be coupled adjacent to and, in someembodiments, flush with panel 40 of tray 38. Base 51 of cable managementspool 46 defines a plurality of openings 88 that are spaced to match thespacing of openings 42 defined in panel 40 of tray 38. Base 51 isplanar. Accordingly, when one opening 88 of cable management spool 46 isaligned with one opening 42 of panel 40, the other openings 88 of cablemanagement spool 46 can be aligned with other openings 42 of panel 40.When openings 88 and openings 42 are aligned, fasteners 60 can passthrough openings 88 and operatively engage openings 42 of panel 40 toreleasably secure cable management spool 46 to tray 38. In somealternative embodiments, instead of base 51 defining openings 88 forreceiving fasteners 60, base 51 includes a plurality of integralfasteners, for example, interference fit pins, that extend from base 51and that are spaced to match the spacing of openings 42 of panel 40 tooperatively engage openings 42 of panel 40 to create the interferencefit, which releasably couples cable management spool 46 to tray 38.

Fiber distribution assembly 2 can include one or more cable adapterplates 48 that are configured to hold one or more adapters 50. FIG. 11illustrates one embodiment of adapter plate 48 without adapters 50coupled thereto. Adapter plate 48 includes a base 89 configured to becoupled adjacent to and, in some embodiments, flush with panel 40 oftray 38. Base 89 of adapter plate 48 defines a plurality of openings 96that are spaced to match the spacing of openings 42 defined in panel 40of tray 38. Base 89 is planar. Accordingly, when one opening 96 ofadapter plate 48 is aligned with one opening 42 of panel 40, the otheropenings 96 of adapter plate 48 can be aligned with other openings 42 ofpanel 40. When openings 96 and openings 42 are aligned, fasteners 60 canpass through openings 96 and operatively engage openings 42 of panel 40to releasably secure adapter plate 48 to tray 38. In some alternativeembodiments, instead of base 89 defining openings 96 for receivingfasteners 60, base 89 includes a plurality of integral fasteners, forexample, interference fit pins, that extend from base 89 and that arespaced to match the spacing of openings 42 of panel 40 to operativelyengage openings 42 of panel 40 to create the interference fit, whichreleasably couples adapter plate 48 to tray 38. Adapter plate 48 alsoincludes a vertical panel 90 extending from base 89. Vertical panel 90defines a plurality of openings 94 configured to securely receiveadapters 50 (not shown in FIG. 11) either individually or as a pack. Insome embodiments, adapter plate 48 is configured to hold up to 48adapters. In other embodiments, adapter plate 48 is configured to holdmore than 50 adapters.

Fiber distribution assembly 2 can include one or more cable guides 58that are configured to retain one or more fiber optic cables close tothe surface to which cable guides 58 are mounted. FIG. 12 illustratesone embodiment of cable guide 58. Cable guide 58 includes a base 98configured to be coupled adjacent to and, in some embodiments, flushwith panel 40 of tray 38. Base 98 is planar. Base 98 of cable guide 58defines a plurality of openings 100 that are spaced to match the spacingof openings 42 defined in panel 40 of tray 38. Accordingly, when oneopening 100 of cable guide 58 is aligned with one opening 42 of panel40, at least one other opening 100 of cable guide 58 can be aligned withother openings 42 of panel 40.

In some embodiments, cable guide 58 can have four openings 100 as shownin FIG. 12—two opposing pair of openings 100. In some embodiments, whenone opening 100 is aligned with one opening 42 of panel 40 only one ofthe opposing pair of openings 100 is aligned with another opening 42.Openings 100 can be spaced such that cable guide 58 can be installed atdifferent angles relative base 6. Referring to FIG. 5, in someembodiments, openings 100 can be spaced such that cable guides 58 can becoupled to base 6, for example, at angles perpendicular, parallel, andat 45 degree angles relative to line 29. When cable guides 58 arecoupled at angles perpendicular or parallel to line 29, outer openings100 of each pair are aligned with openings 42, and when cable guides 58are coupled to base 6 at 45 degree angles relative to line 29, inneropenings 100 of each pair are aligned with openings 42.

When openings 100 and openings 42 are aligned, fasteners 60 can passthrough openings 100 and operatively engage openings 42 of panel 40 toreleasably secure cable guide 58 to tray 38. In some alternativeembodiments, instead of base 98 defining openings 100 for receivingfasteners 60, base 98 includes a plurality of integral fasteners, forexample, interference fit pins, that extend from base 98 and that arespaced to match the spacing of openings 42 of panel 40 to operativelyengage openings 42 of panel 40 to create an interference fit, whichreleasably couples cable guide 58 to tray 38. Cable guide 58 alsoincludes a cable retaining arm structure 97 that is configured toreleasably retain one or more fiber optic cables close to the surface ofpanel 40 to which cable guide 58 is mounted. Arm structure 97 isconfigured to surround the one or more fiber optic cables.

In some embodiments, instead of using openings and fasteners to couplethe cable guides to base 6 or tray 38, the cable guides are configuredto be pressed fit into slots formed into base 6 or tray 38. For example,as shown in FIG. 7, cable guide 58 a is configured to be pressed fitinto a slot formed the side wall panel of tray 38.

Because each of the cable management or fiber optic components that isreleasably releasably coupled to panel 40 of tray 38—for example,splitter holder 44, cable management spool 46, adapter plate 48, andcable guide 58—either (1) defines a plurality of openings that arespaced to match the spacing of openings 42 of panel 40 for receivingfasteners or (2) includes integral fasteners that are spaced to matchopenings 42, an installer can releasably couple these components to tray38 as desired, providing flexibility to use fiber distribution assembly2 in a variety of applications. That us, the installer can easilycustomize the configuration of the cable management or fiber opticcomponents within enclosure 4 simply by aligning the openings orintegral fasteners of the component with the openings 42 of panel 40 oftray 38.

It is to be appreciated that the Detailed Description section, and notthe Summary and Abstract sections, is intended to be used to interpretthe claims. The Summary and Abstract sections may set forth one or morebut not all exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure ascontemplated by the inventors, and thus, are not intended to limit thepresent invention and the appended claims in any way.

The present invention has been described above with the aid offunctional building blocks illustrating the implementation of specifiedfunctions and relationships thereof. The boundaries of these functionalbuilding blocks have been arbitrarily defined herein for the convenienceof the description. Alternate boundaries can be defined so long as thespecified functions and relationships thereof are appropriatelyperformed.

The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fullyreveal the general nature of the invention that others can, by applyingknowledge within the skill of the art, readily modify and/or adapt forvarious applications such specific embodiments, without undueexperimentation, without departing from the general concept of thepresent invention. Therefore, such adaptations and modifications areintended to be within the meaning and range of equivalents of thedisclosed embodiments, based on the teaching and guidance presentedherein. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminologyherein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation, suchthat the terminology or phraseology of the present specification is tobe interpreted by the skilled artisan in light of the teachings andguidance.

The breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited byany of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be definedonly in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

What is claimed is:
 1. A fiber distribution assembly comprising: anenclosure defining an interior cavity and comprising: a base defining afirst opening and a second opening; and a cover rotatably coupled to thebase and configured to rotate about an axis; a tray rotatably coupled tothe enclosure within the interior cavity, and comprising a paneldefining a plurality of uniformly spaced openings; and a plurality ofcable management or fiber optic components each configured to bereleasably coupled to the tray at a plurality of different angularorientations relative to the tray, wherein the plurality of cablemanagement or fiber optic components comprises at least two differenttypes of cable management or fiber optic components, wherein theplurality of cable management or fiber optic components and theplurality of uniformly spaced openings are configured such that each ofthe plurality of cable management or fiber optic components can bereleasably coupled to the tray at a plurality of different angularorientations relative to the tray.
 2. The fiber distribution assembly ofclaim 1, further comprising: a solid gland configured to selectivelyseal the first opening and the second opening; and a gland configured topass a fiber optic cable and to selectively seal the first opening andthe second opening.
 3. The fiber distribution assembly of claim 2,wherein the gland configured to pass the fiber optic cable is furtherconfigured to pass a plurality of fiber optic cables.
 4. The fiberdistribution assembly of claim 3, further comprising a gland configuredto pass only a single fiber optic cable and to selectively seal thefirst opening and the second opening.
 5. The fiber distribution assemblyof claim 2, wherein the base further defines a plurality of firstopenings and a plurality of second openings; and the fiber distributionassembly further comprising a plurality of solid glands each configuredto selectively seal one of the plurality of first openings and one ofthe plurality of second openings; and a plurality of glands eachconfigured to a pass fiber optic cable and to selectively seal one ofthe plurality of first openings and one of the plurality of secondopenings.
 6. The fiber distribution assembly of claim 1, wherein the atleast two different types of cable management or fiber optic componentscomprises a first type comprising at least one of a cable managementspool and a cable guide, and a second type comprising at least one of asplitter holder and an adapter plate.
 7. The fiber distribution assemblyof claim 1, further comprising a plurality of cable management or fiberoptic components configured to be releasably coupled to the tray.
 8. Thefiber distribution assembly of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality ofcable management or fiber optic components comprises a base, wherein thebase is configured to be coupled adjacent to the panel of the tray anddefines a plurality of openings spaced to match the spacing of theplurality of uniformly spaced openings of the panel of the tray; and thefiber distribution assembly further comprising a plurality of fastenersconfigured to pass through the plurality of openings of the plurality ofcable management or fiber optic components and operatively engagerespective openings of the plurality of uniformly spaced openings of thepanel of the tray to releasably couple the plurality of cable managementor fiber optic components to the tray.
 9. The fiber distributionassembly of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of cable managementor fiber optic components comprises a base configured to be coupledadjacent to the panel of the tray and a plurality of interference fitpins extending from the base and spaced to match the spacing of theplurality of uniformly spaced openings of the panel of the tray; andwherein the plurality of interference fit pins are configured tooperatively engage respective openings of the plurality of uniformlyspaced openings of the panel of the tray to create an interference fitthat releasably couples the plurality of cable management or fiber opticcomponents to the tray.
 10. The fiber distribution assembly of claim 1,wherein the plurality of uniformly spaced openings of the panel of thetray form a two-dimensional grid pattern.
 11. The fiber distributionassembly of claim 1, wherein the plurality of cable management or fiberoptic components comprises at least one of the group consisting of acable management spool, a cable guide, a splitter holder, and an adapterplate.
 12. The fiber distribution assembly of claim 1, wherein the basedefines a plurality of uniformly spaced openings that match the spacingof the plurality of uniformly spaced openings defined in the panel ofthe tray.
 13. The fiber distribution assembly of claim 1, wherein thebase comprises a main panel, opposing first and second side wallsextending from the main panel, and opposing third and fourth side wallsextending from the base panel between the first and second side walls;wherein the first wall defines the first opening; and wherein the secondwall defines the second opening.
 14. The fiber distribution assembly ofclaim 1, wherein the tray is releasably coupled to the enclosure.
 15. Afiber distribution assembly comprising: an enclosure defining aninterior cavity; a tray rotatably coupled to the enclosure within theinterior cavity of the enclosure and comprising a panel defining aplurality of uniformly spaced openings; a plurality of cable managementor fiber optic components, each comprising a base configured to becoupled adjacent to the panel of the tray and defining a plurality ofopenings spaced to match the spacing of the plurality of uniformlyspaced openings of the panel of the tray, wherein the plurality of cablemanagement or fiber optic components comprises at least two differenttypes of cable management or fiber optic components; and a plurality offasteners configured to pass through the plurality of openings of theplurality of cable management or fiber optic components and operativelyengage respective openings of the plurality of uniformly spaced openingsof the panel of the tray to releasably couple the plurality of cablemanagement or fiber optic components to the tray, wherein the pluralityof cable management or fiber optic components and the plurality ofuniformly spaced openings are configured such that each of the pluralityof cable management or fiber optic components can be releasably coupledto the tray at a plurality of different angular orientations relative tothe tray.
 16. The fiber distribution assembly of claim 15, wherein theplurality of uniformly spaced openings of the tray form atwo-dimensional grid pattern.
 17. The fiber distribution assembly ofclaim 15, wherein the plurality of cable management or fiber opticcomponents comprise at least one of the group consisting of a cablemanagement spool, a cable guide, a splitter holder, and an adapterplate.
 18. The fiber distribution assembly of claim 15, wherein theenclosure comprises a base and a cover rotatably coupled to the basethat rotates about an axis; and wherein the base and the tray aresymmetric about a line perpendicular to the axis.
 19. A fiberdistribution assembly comprising: an enclosure defining an interiorcavity; a tray rotatably coupled to the enclosure within the interiorcavity of the enclosure and comprising a panel defining a plurality ofuniformly spaced openings; and a plurality of cable management or fiberoptic components, each comprising a base configured to be coupledadjacent to the panel of the tray and a plurality of interference fitpins extending from the base and spaced to match the spacing of theplurality of uniformly spaced openings of the panel of the tray andconfigured to operatively engage respective openings of the plurality ofuniformly spaced openings of the panel of the tray to create aninterference fit that releasably couples the plurality of cablemanagement or fiber optic components to the tray, wherein the pluralityof cable management or fiber optic components comprises at least twodifferent types of cable management or fiber optic components, andwherein the plurality of cable management or fiber optic components andthe plurality of uniformly spaced openings are configured such that eachof the plurality of cable management or fiber optic components can bereleasably coupled to the tray at a plurality of different angularorientations relative to the tray.
 20. The fiber distribution assemblyof claim 19, wherein the plurality of uniformly spaced openings of thetray form a two-dimensional grid pattern.
 21. The fiber distributionassembly of claim 19, wherein the plurality of cable management or fiberoptic components comprises at least one of the group consisting of acable management spool, a cable guide, a splitter holder, and an adapterplate.
 22. The fiber distribution assembly of claim 19, wherein theenclosure comprises a base and a cover rotatably coupled to the basethat rotates about an axis; and wherein the base and the tray aresymmetric about a line perpendicular to the axis.
 23. The fiberdistribution assembly of claim 1, wherein: the base is symmetric about aline perpendicular to the axis; the first opening is on one side of theline; the second opening is on the other side of the line; and the trayis symmetric about the line.
 24. The fiber distribution assembly ofclaim 15, wherein the enclosure comprises: a base defining a secondplurality of openings spaced to match the spacing of the plurality ofopenings of each base of at least one type of the plurality of cablemanagement or fiber optic components; and a cover rotatably coupled tothe base of the enclosure.